Reinvention Tip #5: Don't Go it Alone

 

I couldn't end this week of "get primed for success" tips without discussing the value of creating a support team to help you through a career reinvention.  When you think back to other key transition points in your life - graduation, marriage or becoming a parent - chances are that you had a support team of professionals, friends and family in your corner.   

They held you accountable for getting things done, provided you with logistical support and resources, spurred you on when you got frustrated, listened to your concerns, gave advice and cheered your efforts.  They served as your sounding board and helped you to see solutions, when you couldn't see them yourself. 

So before you get too far down the reinvention path, think about who you want to to have on your team. A seasoned career coach is a worthwhile investment (couldn't resist including that), but other people can be very useful as well.  

Find a trusted friend who wants to partner with you as you explore your options.  Consider partnering a group of like-minded individuals who are actively in the process of weighing their second-act careers.  Join an association in order to establish relationships with people who can provide you with advice and contacts.  Get involved with a class where you can meet others who share your interests.

Remember, a great support system turns possibilities into probabilities and dreams into reality.  Now is the time to enlist your team into action.